KUCHING: Indonesia strengthened its cultural diplomacy with Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam through a colourful showcase of arts and cultural performances in conjunction with the country’s 81st Independence Day celebration.
The Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia in Kuching (KJRI) organised Harmoni Kemerdekaan, featuring cultural performances by delegations from Saung Akar Budaya, Cahaya Ladara Nusantara and Komite Seni Budaya Nusantara.
The event was attended by guests from Sarawak, Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam, reflecting the close friendship and cooperation fostered across the island of Borneo.
Indonesian Consul General in Kuching Dr Abdullah Zulkifli said this year’s Independence Day celebration was particularly meaningful as it was celebrated together with friends from Sarawak, Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam.
“I would like to express my gratitude to our partners for joining us tonight to celebrate Indonesia’s Independence Day and for experiencing the arts and cultural performances that we have brought from Indonesia.
“I hope that arts and culture will continue to serve as a bridge to strengthen people-to-people ties while introducing Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage to the world,” he said.
He said this in his welcoming address at the KJRI building here last night (Aug 5).
Among those present were Consul General of Brunei Darussalam in Kuching His Excellency Sheikh Abdul Mahdani Abdul Gani, Foreign Ministry Sarawak Regional Office director Ambassador Hendy Assan, Sarawak Deputy State Secretary Datuk Seri Dr Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel, North Kuching City Hall (DBKU) Mayor Datuk Hilmy Othman and Sarawak Arts Council (MSS) chief executive officer Dr Suffian Jalet.
The cultural evening began with the Golek Widyaningtyas Dance, a classical dance from Yogyakarta symbolising gentleness, elegance and noble character.
This was followed by a fashion showcase featuring kebaya, batik and Indonesian-inspired casual wear from the collections of Agnes Budi Surya and Kebaya Vinona.
The programme also featured an angklung performance. The bamboo musical instrument is recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage and represents the values of togetherness and harmony.
